Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
Patriotic Front (PF) Secretary General Edgar Lungu says it is important that the central committee chooses the PF candidate ahead of the forthcoming presidential by-elections.
Mr. Lungu is of the view that the PF has no enough time to go for a convention and that it will be costly to do so.
Mr. Lungu says the central Committee will meet to discuss matters relating to the selection or election of the party president and presidential candidate that will represent the party in the upcoming by-election.
he has told QFM News in a statement that the Central Committee is empowered to set its own rules, or vary any clause in the constitution as provided for in Article 58 (l) and (m).
he adds that historically, the PF has participated in four (4) General Elections, of these; only one election was preceded by a General Conference.
He says it is therefore important to allow the Central Committee to consider these matters independently recognizing the concerns regarding time, resources, security, peace and unity of the party and nation.
He adds that by the time the Central Committee will hold its first meeting on Thursday, 13TH November 2014, the party will remain with about 72 days or less remaining before the General Election is held.
Mr. Lungu, who is also Defense and Justice Minister, says it should be noted that an election can be held even much earlier.
He has since urged all PF members to refrain from actions that will dishonor the legacy of President Sata and reject activities that will tarnish the image and standing of the Party and the nation at large.
Mr. lungu has also expressed his gratitude to the thousands of Zambians that have turned up at Mulungushi International Conference Centre to view the body of President Sata.
he says it is therefore imperative that the spirit to mourn the former Head of State in peace and dignity must continue until the mourning period on Tuesday 11th November 2014 is concluded.